Study looks at later-starting school year

GULFPORT — If school began at the end of August, a study by Gulf Coast Business Council Research Foundation finds the state could generate millions in tourism dollars and school districts could save money on utilities.

Currently, most districts begin holding class the first or second week in August. The study looked at starting at the end of August or the first week of September.

While the study does not advocate a position, the study does point out that if school started later and summer was extended, the state could make more than $150 million from in-state and out-of-state tourists. The study also says school districts could save between $1 million and $3 million a year on utilities.